Genjiyama Park
源氏山公園
A park developed on a 93-meter hill rising behind central Kamakura, said to be the former site of Minamoto no Yoritomo's Shirahata Castle, and famous as a cherry-blossom spot. It serves as a waypoint on the hiking course from Zeniarai Benzaiten to Kuzuharaoka Shrine, with sweeping views over Kamakura from near the summit.
A cherry-blossom spot
About 200 Yoshino cherry trees grow in the park, and the sight of them blooming all at once from late March to early April is spectacular. The image of cherry blossoms surrounding the statue of Minamoto no Yoritomo has become one of the iconic scenes of spring in Kamakura, frequently photographed.
The statue of Minamoto no Yoritomo and its history
A stone statue of Minamoto no Yoritomo stands in the park in memory of the founder of the Kamakura shogunate. The site is said to have once been Shirahata Castle, and the park's name recalls its later connection to the Minamoto clan, from whom the brothers Yoshitsune and Yoritomo rose up.
The hiking course
A popular hiking route runs from Zeniarai Benzaiten (near Kamakura Station) through Kuzuharaoka Shrine, Genjiyama Park, and the Great Buddha Tunnel to Hase, letting hikers enjoy Kamakura's nature and historic sites in a single walk. The full route takes about 2-3 hours.
Seasonal Highlights
🌸 Spring (Mar-May)
The cherry-blossom season from late March to early April is the park's biggest highlight, popular with locals as a hanami spot.
🌿 Summer (Jun-Aug)
The shaded park stays relatively cool even in summer, making it a good rest stop while hiking.
🍁 Autumn (Sep-Nov)
The entire park turns color during foliage season, making for an enjoyable walk. Mid-to-late November is best.
❄️ Winter (Dec-Feb)
Bare trees open up views over central Kamakura. With fewer visitors, you can have the quiet park almost to yourself.
Visit Tips
- Suggested duration
- About 30-60 minutes (2-3 hours if hiking the full course)
- Crowd levels
- Extremely crowded with hanami visitors during cherry-blossom season
- Best time to visit
- An early-morning walk, or visit during the fresh greenery of May if you'd rather avoid the cherry-blossom crowds
| Address | Yamanouchi / Ogigayatsu, Kamakura, Kanagawa |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open access (sunrise to sunset) |
| Admission | Free |
| Official Website | Visit official website |
Access
- 30 min walk from Kamakura Station (On foot (via Zeniarai Benzaiten))